Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, City Hall stands as a beacon of architectural splendor and civic pride. Greg Bayol, a 77-year-old retired state transportation department employee, passionately dedicates his Fridays to leading visitors through this magnificent building as a volunteer docent.
During a recent tour, Bayol captivated a small group, including a man from the East Bay and a young couple newly relocated from Seattle, sharing the hidden stories and artistic intricacies that define City Hall.
One of the highlights of the tour is the supervisors’ legislative chamber. Bayol pointed out the ceiling, which may appear to be carved wood, is actually painted plaster, a clever illusion that leaves visitors admiring the craftsmanship.
In contrast, the wood paneling adorning the chamber walls is authentic Manchurian oak, known for its softness and ease of carving. This oak, imported from now-extinct forests in Asia, showcases historical importation practices, while the chamber’s bronze artichoke doorknobs serve as symbolic reminders of hope and dreams, despite the artichoke’s Mediterranean roots.
As the tour unfolded, Bayol noted the absence of the supervisors, who are currently enjoying their summer recess. The flowers within the chamber, also absent of their vibrant bloom, reflect a serene stillness. Meanwhile, outside, the grand staircase remains a favorite spot for newlyweds and those celebrating their quinceañeras, creating a vibrant tapestry of joy and celebration.
The grand staircase, originally intended to lead to the mayor’s office, now greets visitors head-on through an intentional redesign by the Board of Supervisors. This decision enhances the visual splendor of City Hall, allowing visitors to appreciate its full length upon entry.
Bayol also shared fascinating facts about the rotunda, an architectural marvel that towers 307 feet tall, notably surpassing the height of the U.S. Capitol building’s dome by 19 feet. This grand space is so expansive that the Statue of Liberty, measuring 305 feet, could theoretically fit inside if it could be maneuvered through the doors.
Visitors can find beauty in the details, as the rotunda’s dome features delicate dahlias, San Francisco’s iconic city flower. Bayol explained that these flowers symbolize the city’s deep historical ties to Mexico and Central America, reinforcing the cultural connections that thrive in San Francisco.
The architect behind this architectural masterpiece, Arthur Brown Jr., was appointed in 1912 after winning a competitive selection process against local architects. Bayol emphasized Brown’s impressive portfolio, which includes the design of Berkeley’s City Hall and the War Memorial Opera House located just across the street.
Illuminating the rotunda are glass skylights that were once designated as pigeon patios. In the 1950s, the city’s Department of Public Works chose to cover the roofs to simplify maintenance, rescuing them from weekly scrubbing of pigeon droppings. However, renovations following the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 uncovered the skylights for the first time in decades, welcoming the pigeons back—but this time, the city responded by introducing peregrine falcons to control their population.
Bayol, who also lends his knowledge to the California Academy of Sciences on Saturdays, mentioned the contrasting nature of inquiries he receives at each institution. At City Hall, tourists frequently ask, “Where is the bathroom?” whereas at the Academy, they might wonder about Claude, the resident albino alligator, and whether he is alive or merely a lifelike model.
Despite the differences in visitor engagement, Bayol holds a deep appreciation for City Hall. His most cherished memory takes him back to February 12, 2004, when then-Mayor Gavin Newsom opened City Hall to same-sex marriages.
“Everybody was happy and having a good time,” he recalled with fondness. “It was such a joyous time… It is what the city of San Francisco is and what it stands for.”
Through Greg Bayol’s stewardship of history and beauty at San Francisco City Hall, guests are reminded of the old world charm and vibrant culture that continue to flourish within the city’s corridors.
image source from：missionlocal
